Skydiver Celebrate EP Release at Pie Shop DC

After years of commitment and hard work, local indie duo Skydiver celebrated the release of their debut EP at Pie Shop DC alongside two other local bands The Duskwhales and Collider. Friends and family piled in to support the local talent, and they did not disappoint.

Skydiver performed all five tracks off their new self-titled EP, along with old favorites, and a Radiohead cover. The latter was a fitting choice, for Justin Price’s (vocals, guitar) voice rang out with the clarity and power of Thom Yorke. Skydiver play with a gentle power that is both engaging and comforting, and cast a warm light around the venue. Price, joined by Spencer Duggan (bass), took breaks in between nearly every song to thank everyone who had a hand in bringing the album to fruition. Their gratitude and humbleness was quite apparent, and made the evening even more special.

The band’s sound was even richer onstage than its recorded counterpart, with the layers of instrumental and vocal harmonies shining through. Perhaps it was the addition of a third musician, that Price had a rotating selection of guitars to mull through, or the fact that they were all visibly having a wonderful time, but the result was a warm, inclusive place where everyone in attendance wore gentle smiles and bobbed along effortlessly.

Openers The Duskwhales and Collider each brought their own sound to the table, with the latter playing with a level of grunge that made them stand out from the other two bands. Collider played a relatively continuous set, rarely breaking for air or banter. Their intensity was captivating.

The Duskwhales, on the other hand, projected strong psychedelic indie vibes. With a sound that felt quite reminiscent of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and even local band Super Doppler, The Duskwhales performed impressive vocal harmonies that presented the band as a cohesive and united front. In addition to old favorites, The Duskwhales performed their latest single “Today” — the perfect summer jam. Be sure to keep an eye out for their full album coming later this summer!

The Skydiver EP release show was a night filled with enriching and diverse music, with Skydiver skillfully organizing a setlist that switched masterfully between slower tracks like “Perfect Circle” and more upbeat, dance tracks like “Heist”, resulting in a set that kept people on their toes, eagerly awaiting what came next.

Skydiver’s debut EP was strong, and we’re eager to see where they head next.

Abbie Ginis

Abbie Ginis has been a music junkie for as long as she can remember. Hailing from Michigan (Go Blue!), she is eager to continue to explore and be immersed in the DMV music scene. When she's not at concerts, Abbie can be found at the movies or longingly ogling at puppies.